Allen L. Dunnagan, 52, of Wabash, died Tuesday, July 18, 2017, at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, after a short illness.

He was born on June 26, 1965, in Wabash to Willis, Sr. and Frances Ann (Huddleston) Dunnagan.

Whether you knew him formally as Allen, lovingly as “Uncle Al,” or as the always jovial “Big Al,” he was a ray of sunshine in the lives that he touched. Allen gave his entire heart to the world around him and lived a life of service to his family, friends, and many communities.

He was a council member for the Miami Nation of Indiana where he served as treasurer, managed the tribe’s charitable gaming operation, and championed the Miami Food Bank. Allen also served as president of the Miami Indian Foundation.

In addition to his participation with the Miami Nation, Allen was heavily involved with the United Steel Workers Union. He dedicated many years as the Unit Vice-President (Local 7-154), Vice President of Indiana Council of Locals, member of the Rank and File Advisory Board, and Sergeant-in-Arms.

Throughout the years he also volunteered as a junior high football coach and with the United Way of Greater Lafayette. Allen also belonged to the Fraternal Order of the Eagles. He was active in politics, running as the Democratic State Representative for Indiana’s 22nd District in 2006, 2008, and 2010. Allen was employed for 26 years with Jefferson Smurfit Corporation in Lafayette, and most recently with the Miami Nation in Peru. Allen enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, hunting, watching sports, and everything NASCAR.

Allen is survived by his loving fiancÚ, Kathy McVoy of Wabash; her daughter, Heather (Justin) Bowers and grandchildren, Brendan Tracy, Braydan Tracy, and Justise Bowers; his father, Willis Dunnagan Sr. of Wabash; sister, Tyann (Bruce) Besonen of West Lafayette; and brothers; Willis, Jr. (Connie) Dunnagan of Lafontaine, Steve (Lisa) Dunnagan of Wabash, and John (Faye) Dunnagan of Peru. Known fondly as “Uncle Al,” Allen also had a very special relationship with his many nieces and nephews.

Allen was preceded in death by his mother; infant brother, Randy Dunnagan; brother, Ernest Dunnagan; and nephew, Matthew Dunnagan.